Ahead of the 2023 Summit, we reached out to our experts on the ground to guide our packing.
One of the best parts about the DLN Summit is the diverse range of activities it encompasses; our time in Mexico City will include everything from discussion groups to practicums to architectural and food tours, black tie dinners, and cocktail parties. All that makes for a spectacular few days—but a difficult packing list. To help, we asked some of this year’s featured speakers—CDMX locals who know just what’s needed for a trip there—what they suggest ensuring you have in your suitcase. Here’s what they said.
- Light sweaters: “First time CDMX visitors often pack to go to the beach or Palm Springs, which is not the weather profile,” cautions Rodman Primack. “Mexico is so high in the mountains that it gets chilly most nights and in the morning, so the secret is to layer”
- A light coat: Primack recommends a chore coat style with pockets, while Karla Martinez de Salas is partial to a blazer.
- Linen shirts are a favorite of Gloria Cortina.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Martinez de Salas suggests Mary Jane flats or sneakers.
- A sun hat and sunglasses: “The sun is STRONG,” Primack warns. Sunblock (see above!).
- A big bag to hold hats, sunscreen, water bottle, program guide, and any purchases.
- Light, comfortable pants or long skirts for indoor tours and General Session.
- A swimsuit: All summit hotels have pools.
- A festive outfit for the Welcome Reception. (This is the night to have fun with fashion—feathers, sequins, and bold colors encouraged!).
- A cocktail attire outfit for Dine-Around Dinners.
- A black tie outfit for the Design Leadership Award Dinner.
- A formal shawl or jacket for chilly evenings.
- Costume jewelry: we don’t recommend traveling anywhere with your finest jewels; opt for simple everyday jewelry or go cheap and cheerful for statement looks.
- A notebook to jot down inspiration, notes from sessions, or sketches of tours.
- An extra suitcase for shopping in CDMX!
- Passport!